TALLAHASSEE, FL – Senator Arthenia Joyner (D-Tampa) was designated on Friday as the Leader of the Senate Democratic Caucus for the 2014-2016 legislative term. She will be the second woman, and the first Black woman, to ever serve in the position.

“I’m very proud of the confidence my fellow Senate Democrats have placed in me,” said Senator Joyner. “It’s an honor to be named the designated leader of such a hard working, motivated group of individuals. All of us are determined to do our best for the people of Florida.”

An attorney, Senator Joyner was first elected to the Senate in 2006, and served as Minority Leader Pro Tempore in the 2010-2012 legislative term. The Tampa Democrat also served in the Florida House of Representatives from 2000-2006.

Throughout her decades of public service, Senator Joyner has been internationally recognized as a tireless advocate for human and civil rights, including a 1995 appointment by President Bill Clinton as a member of the United States Delegation for the United Nations 4th World Conference on Women held in Beijing, China. She has also received numerous awards and recognition for her work as an attorney and lawmaker.

A lifelong resident of the Sunshine State, Senator Joyner received both her undergraduate and law degrees from Florida A&M University in Tallahassee. She is the longest practicing Black female attorney in the state of Florida.